Tuesday Hike: Hammond Hill

Event/Trailhead location: FLT trail-head near 1100 Harford Slaterville Rd, Dryden, NY 13053 (click for map). Please park safely as far off the pavement as you can without putting your vehicle in danger. Do not stand on the road, as fast moving traffic often passes this trail-head.

Tonight our destination is Hammond Hill State Forest, known locally for its abundance of cross-country ski trails, which are heavily traveled when we get snow. But the FLT also traverses the forest, and its mixed hardwoods are worth a look on an evening hike.

We will start at the FLT trailhead on the Harford-Slaterville Road, head north and east for an hour, then turn back and retrace our steps.

Bring water, hiking boots or shoes. Recommended gear is headlamp or flashlight, or both, we will exit the woods at dusk.

Directions from Ithaca: Take Route 79 from Ithaca east to the little village of Slaterville Springs. Go through the village. The second left after you exit the village is Harford Rd. Turn left on Harford Rd. and go another 4.8 miles to the FLT trail-head. Look for cars and hikers gathering. From Ithaca, the drive is about 25 minutes.

If you are unsure of navigation, email Gary.

Parts of this hike will qualify for the Hike 100 Challenge with the North Country Trail Association. Mileage will be calculated at the hike.